The headlines around the collection and processing of Facebook user data by Cambridge Analytica further demonstrated that what you put online stays online and further grows your digital footprint. The news that dating apps were sharing user data with third parties and the fact that there are more opportunities for federated logins result in even more data available on you, which consequently makes it easier for companies to share that data and target sales.

Techopedia defines digital identity as combining elements such as usernames, online search activities, electronic transactions, date of birth and purchasing history or behavior.

What are the options to reduce the size of your digital footprint and how can you take steps to make yourself less visible online than you currently are? Infosecurity looked at some of the best options.

01 – Delete or Deactivate Old Shopping & Social Network AccountsGo to your account settings and look for an option to either deactivate, remove or close your account on any social network or online shopping site that you no longer use. “How to Delete Yourself from the Internet (Item 1)” by CNet

04 – Deactivate Old Email AccountsHow many email accounts have you used over the years? Deactivating them is important and must include finding – and deleting – old services and corporate accounts.“How to Reduce Your Digital Footprint” by Clark

10 – Don’t Click on Daft SurveysClickbait has become part of the modern internet, but with each ‘which Friends character are you?’ survey you enter, you’re giving something up. Ask yourself whether it’s worth the trade-off.

We are here to help. Keep in mind that we are always looking for ways to improve your IT performance and strengthen the security of your environment. Please send us an email at Cybersecurity@Trinityww.com or call us a call at (732) 780-8615, if you have any questions about how you can utilize IT to its fullest while keeping your IT environment safe and secure.